Sports

Jim Ratcliffe intervenes as Jadon Sancho declines to offer an apology to Erik ten Hag.

Ineos chief Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s imminent £1.3 billion deal for a minority stake in Manchester United is poised for approval, signaling potential player changes. Among those slated for departure in the New Year is Jadon Sancho, according to reports.

The 71-year-old Ratcliffe has secured the deal with the Glazers and is set to take control of sporting operations upon ratification at a board meeting. The confirmation of Ratcliffe’s deal is expected soon, suggesting significant alterations at Old Trafford.

Ratcliffe’s agenda includes a revamp of the club’s recruitment strategy, with ongoing efforts to find a sporting director. Plans for the January transfer window are already taking shape.

As per The Sun, Sancho is among the underperforming players United is willing to move in January. Unlike Antony and Anthony Martial, Sancho is not in Erik ten Hag’s current plans and hasn’t played since August.

The former Borussia Dortmund winger faced public criticism from Ten Hag, leading to his exclusion from the squad. Sancho refused to apologize, resulting in his exile from the first-team picture.

Despite pleas from teammates like Harry Maguire, Marcus Rashford, and Luke Shaw, Sancho remains unyielding. United is expected to entertain inquiries for the £73 million forward, even considering a loan exit due to his struggles at Old Trafford.

While United may accept a loss on their significant investment, the willingness of other clubs to meet the valuation remains uncertain. Sancho attracted interest from the Saudi Pro League earlier in the year.